Philadelphia Mummers Parade
When: January 1. Where: Philadelphia, PA. What: Philly keeps the ancient traveling folk tradition of "mummers" alive with a festival on New Year's Day. Imagine 15,000 human peacocks -- that's what the caped, sequined, strutting performers resemble. Tip: The parade kicks off at 9 a.m., before most New Year's partiers have climbed out of bed. For an up-close shot of one of the mummers, get up at dawn (this parade is popular!). Info: www.phillymummers.com; 215-686-1776.
Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition
When: January 16–19 (weather permitting). Where: Rockford, IL. What: Up to 35 teams chisel enormous sculptures of dragons, Vikings, and hippos in a 1-mile loop in Sinnissippi Park. Tip: Set a custom white balance to avoid a blue cast off the snow. Return at night to see the sculptures lit like marble against a dark sky. Info: www.rockfordparkdistrict.org; 815-987-1600.
Wings Over Willcox Celebration
When: January 17–20. Where: Willcox, AZ. What: Nearly 30,000 sandhill cranes (along with 120 other species of birds) winter in southern Arizona, drawing hundreds of nature enthusiasts during this peak weekend. Tip: Most of the cranes (about 25,000) lift off at the Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area -- the best visibility is on Davis Road between mileposts 20 and 21. For other sighting spots, pick up a map at the Willcox Chamber of Commerce, or join a photo tour group (www.wildlifephototour.com). Info: www.wingsoverwillcox.com; 800-200-2272.
Polar Bear Jumpoff & the Ugly Fish Toss
When: January 18–20. Where: Seward, AK. What: For a novel way to shoot the stunning coast of Alaska, photograph 100 people in wacky costumes jumping into Resurrection Bay, sponsored as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Tip: Check-in is at 8:30 a.m. at the Breeze Inn Motel, for close-ups of jumpers in costume. Skip the parade to snag a spot on the boardwalk for the jump -- it gets packed. If the tide is low enough, climb down to the beach below. Info: www.sewardak.org; 907-224-5230.
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